In the last few years, the idea of “going green” has been heavily touted. It has truly become a lifestyle choice, yet, because of the grand scale of the idea, is incredibly vague. Unfortunately, this can make it intimidating for people considering adopting green habits into their routine. It can also be daunting because the concept implies a total overhaul of your normal lifestyle. For those who find their home and routine perfectly comfortable as is, the imposing idea of green living is unappealing. But don’t worry! Here are a few easy, simple means of incorporating eco-friendly ways of living into your routine, décor, and life without greatly altering anything.

Unplug Appliances

If your electronics are plugged into an outlet, they’re using energy even when they are not turned on. That’s why unplugging appliances when you are not using them is an excellent way to save on your home’s energy usage. Worried that unplugged cords look messy and disrupt your home décor? Start using power strips! Power strips will keep your cords plugged into something so they aren’t hanging or getting caught in other things. Plus, they make it easier for you to plug and unplug appliances since you will only need to remove the strip’s plug from the wall. Power strips, also, are no longer the simple “strips” of old. You can find ones in space-saving shapes, ones with remote controls for easy energy-saving regulation, ones that are so cute you won’t notice they are a power strip, and ones that match any wall color.

Use Cloth Instead of Paper

If you constantly use paper towels and napkins, you are filling up your trashcan, needlessly wasting paper products, and throwing away money. Make the switch to cloth. Fun seasonal or holiday themed hand and dishtowels will not only reduce your paper waste, but they also brighten up your kitchen and ensure there are no messy, wet paper towels left after doing the hand wash. Similarly, cloth napkins add color to your dining table and can be matched creatively with your place mats or tablecloth to add charm to your eating experience. An added bonus is that cloth napkins and towels only need to be washed once a week, so you won’t be increasing your electric or water bills by making the switch!

Donate Old Clothes

Take a look at your closet and honestly consider what has not been worn in the past year. For each of these items, ask yourself if you ever will wear it again. If you cannot honestly say that you will, donate it to a local thrift store or homeless shelter. By donating to either place, you’re recycling perfectly usable clothing and letting people who need clothes find them. Plus, you’re helping the local economy by donating to a thrift store, and you’re helping a great cause save money if you donate to a homeless shelter. Cleaning out your wardrobe is also beneficial to you. Having more room in your closet means clothes hang better and will be wrinkle free, while you’ll be better able to see what you have and make use of all your clothing!

Make Use of Natural Heat and Air

In the winter open all your windows and let the sun shine in; the natural heat will reduce your heater’s workload. Conversely, in the summer, be sure to cover windows that are facing the sun so your air conditioner is not forced to work harder. Having the right set of window coverings will allow you to utilize these natural means of heat and cooling. A window covering does not have to mean installing cheap blinds on all your windows. Find a style, like wooden blinds or beautiful, fabric drapes that works well with each room’s décor, and you’ll be increasing the style of your home by adding window coverings.

Make Use of Natural Light

Anytime you are able to use natural light instead of electrical lights, see if you can. In many situations, you may be surprised to find that having open windows brightens a room better than having your lights on. Plus, natural light is proven to make people happier and make rooms look more appealing. So, not only will you cut down on your power bill, but you will also be brightening your own mood and, if you have guests, improving their view of your home!